Extended Faro, Compact Lagos 9-Day Portugal Itinerary July 24‑August 1, 2026 with Setúbal, Sintra, Ericeira & Lisbon

Faro · Friday, July 24, 2026

Arrive in Faro and explore the historic Old Town

Morning:

Start the day with a leisurely coffee and pastel de nata at Café Aliança, then wander through the cobblestone lanes to the iconic Arco da Vila gate and step inside the majestic Faro Cathedral for panoramic views from its tower. Continue with a visit to the atmospheric Igreja do Carmo, home to the haunting Chapel of Bones, and finish with a gentle stroll along the quiet Ribeira district to soak up the waterfront ambience.

Afternoon:

After lunch, wander to the vibrant Praça do Município, where you can admire the 18th-century Faro City Hall and sip a glass of Vinho Verde at a terrace café. Then explore the Museu Municipal de Faro, housed in a former convent, to discover archaeological treasures from the Roman and Moorish eras. Cap the afternoon with a leisurely stroll along the Faro Marina, watching traditional fishing boats sway as the sun begins to set over the Ria Formosa.

Evening:

As twilight deepens, wander up to the Faro City Walls for panoramic night views of the glittering harbor, then savor fresh seafood at the acclaimed A Venda tucked in a charming alley. Cap the evening with a nightcap at the rooftop lounge Miradouro da Porta Nova, where the city lights and distant Atlantic breeze create a magical farewell to your first day.

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Faro · Saturday, July 25, 2026

Relax on Ilha de Faro beaches and discover Ria Formosa nature reserve

Morning:

Begin the morning with a gentle stroll along the soft sands of Praia da Ilha de Faro, where turquoise waters invite a refreshing dip, then cycle along the island's palm-lined promenade to the charming Cais da Areia café for a light breakfast of fresh fruit and Portuguese coffee. Afterwards, join a guided kayak tour that glides through the winding canals of Ria Formosa Natural Park, offering close encounters with flamingos, oyster beds, and a serene viewpoint on Ilha da Culatra for bird-watching.

Afternoon:

Set sail on a relaxed catamaran to Ilha da Barreta (Ilha Deserta), where you can unwind on pristine sands and enjoy a seaside picnic at the modest Restaurante do Barreta. Afterwards, wander the historic fishing harbor of Faro Port, sampling fresh catches at a local stall before sipping a cool drink at the breezy Bar da Praia on Praia de Faro as the sun begins its descent.

Evening:

As the sun sets, stroll through the fragrant Jardim Manuel Bivar before heading to the historic Teatro Lethes for a lively fado performance. Afterwards, delight in a dinner of freshly grilled sardines at the cozy O Camponês, where the sea breeze and lantern-lit patio create the perfect end to your island adventure.

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Faro · Sunday, July 26, 2026

Explore Faro's museums, promenade and coastal viewpoints

Morning:

Begin the morning at the Museu Marítimo Almirante Ramalho Ortigão, where interactive displays bring the Algarve's nautical heritage to life, then wander next door to the Centro Cultural de Faro to soak in a rotating showcase of contemporary art. Afterward, stroll along the sun-kissed Avenida 5 de Outubro promenade, pausing at the sweeping Miradouro do Monte da Vila for panoramic views over the Ria Formosa and Faro's iconic red-tiled rooftops.

Afternoon:

After lunch, explore the Museu Arqueológico do Algarve, where Roman mosaics and Moorish artifacts bring the region's layered history to life. Stroll across the historic Ponte Romana and wander the revitalized Passeio da Ribeira, pausing at the serene Jardim do Amial for a cool drink while watching fishing boats bobbing in the water. Finish the afternoon at the breezy Miradouro da Praia de Faro, soaking in sweeping Atlantic vistas as the sun begins its golden descent.

Evening:

As dusk settles, sip artisanal tapas and a glass of local vinho at the lively Café Central, then wander to the bustling Praça da República where street musicians fill the air with traditional melodies. Finish the night with a panoramic cocktail at the Rooftop Bar of Hotel Eva, watching the city lights shimmer over the Ria Formosa.

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Lagos · Monday, July 27, 2026

Travel to Lagos with a scenic stop in Albufeira

Morning:

Depart Faro early and enjoy a leisurely drive along the coastal EN125, pausing at the vibrant Albufeira Old Town for a pastel de nata and a stroll beneath its iconic Clock Tower. Continue to the sun-kissed Praia da Oura, where you can dip your toes in the Atlantic or sip a fresh orange juice at the beachfront Bar da Praia. Finally, board a short ferry from Albufeira Marina to the cliffs of Ponta da Piedade, setting the tone for the afternoon arrival in Lagos.

Afternoon:

After settling into your Lagos hotel, meander through the enchanting Lagos Old Town, where winding lanes reveal the opulent Igreja de Santo António with its gilded interiors. Treat yourself to a leisurely lunch at the bustling Mercado Municipal de Lagos, sampling fresh seafood tapas and local cheeses. Finish the afternoon with a short walk to the historic Forte da Ponta da Bandeira, where you can soak in panoramic harbour views before a sunset dip at the nearby Praia da Dona Ana.

Evening:

After sunset, head to the lively Lagos Marina where you can enjoy a waterfront dinner at the acclaimed Restaurante dos Artistas, sampling fresh grilled sardines and regional wines. Continue the night with a leisurely stroll along the illuminated Lapa do Camilo cliffs, then unwind with a cocktail at the stylish Vila Sol Bar, soaking in the gentle Atlantic breeze and the town's twinkling lights.

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Lagos · Tuesday, July 28, 2026

Wander Lagos Old Town, marina, and local markets

Morning:

Start the morning with a leisurely walk along the sun-kissed Praia da Batata, where you can sip a freshly squeezed orange juice at the beachfront kiosk and dip your feet in the gentle Atlantic. Then head to the historic Museu Municipal Dr. José Formosinho, nestled in a 16th-century convent, to discover artifacts that trace Lagos from its maritime golden age to today. Finish with a browse through the vibrant stalls of Mercado de Lagos, sampling local cheeses, chouriço, and a glass of chilled Vinho Verde while chatting with friendly vendors.

Afternoon:

Set off from Lagos Marina on a short boat tour that weaves through the towering limestone arches and secret caves of Ponta da Piedade, offering breathtaking photo opportunities. After docking, stroll down to the sun-drenched Praia do Camilo for a refreshing swim and a leisurely walk along its iconic wooden boardwalk. Conclude the afternoon with a hands-on visit to the Centro Ciência Viva de Lagos, where interactive exhibits let you discover the region's maritime heritage before enjoying a sunset cocktail at the nearby waterfront Bar do Peixe.

Evening:

As the sun dips behind the cliffs, wander through the lantern-lit streets of the historic Porta da Cidade and savor a dinner of perfectly grilled sardines at the beloved A Forja, where the aromas drift onto the cobbles. Afterwards, stroll along the Lagos waterfront promenade and enjoy a nightcap at Bar O Pescador, letting the gentle Atlantic breeze and soft fado melodies close your day in coastal bliss.

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Setúbal · Wednesday, July 29, 2026

Explore Setúbal's historic center and waterfront

Morning:

Begin your Setúbal morning with a stroll through the bustling Mercado do Livramento, where vibrant stalls overflow with fresh fish, local cheeses, and the region's famed Azorean pineapples, and sip a chilled glass of Vinho Moscatel at the nearby Café da Praça while watching the fishermen unload their catch. Continue to the historic Fortaleza de São Filipe, perched atop a hill overlooking the Sado River, for panoramic city views and a brief guided tour of its 16th-century bastions. Wrap up the morning with a leisurely coffee on the charming Bairro da Ribeira waterfront promenade, watching traditional seahorse-shaped boats glide by.

Afternoon:

Spend the early afternoon savoring fresh seafood at Casa da Baía, a sleek restaurant overlooking the bustling Porto de Setúbal, then stroll to the Museu do Trabalho Michel Giacometti to discover the city's industrial heritage through interactive exhibits. Conclude with a relaxing walk along the scenic Praia da Figueirinha, where you can dip your toes in the turquoise Atlantic and enjoy the sunset from the dramatic cliffs of Arrábida Natural Park.

Evening:

After sunset, head to the historic Praça da República where you can enjoy live jazz at Café Luso, then savor a dinner of black scabbardfish at the acclaimed Restaurante O Navegante with a view over the Sado River. End the night with a leisurely stroll along the illuminated Passeio da Marginal, stopping for a nightcap at the stylish Bar do Convento housed in the 16th-century Convento de Jesus.

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Lisbon · Thursday, July 30, 2026

Sintra day trip from Lisbon and relax near the airport

Morning:

Catch the early Sintra Railway from Rossio and wander into the fairy-tale town, beginning with a stroll through the ornate Palácio Nacional de Sintra before heading up to the mystical gardens of Quinta da Regaleira, where secret tunnels and enchanted wells await. Conclude the morning with a short hike to the ancient Castelo dos Mouros, where panoramic vistas over the rolling hills set the perfect tone for the day's exploration.

Afternoon:

After lunch, take the short bus ride up to the fairy-tale Palácio da Pena, where you can wander the brightly tiled rooms and roam the terraced gardens offering sweeping views of the Sintra hills. Then descend to the lush Palácio de Monserrate, strolling among its exotic botanical collection and the whimsical Chalet of the Countess of Edla. Conclude the afternoon with a tranquil walk through the secluded Convento dos Capuchos, feeling the cool stone walls and hearing the whisper of pine forests.

Evening:

After the afternoon palaces, head west to the dramatic cliffs of Cabo da Roca, where the Atlantic winds whisper as the sun dips below the horizon, then drive to the charming seaside village of Azenhas do Mar to enjoy a romantic dinner of fresh grilled fish at Restaurante Casa da Fonte, perched above the turquoise waters. Conclude the night with a relaxed stroll along the moonlit promenade of Cascais Marina, sipping a glass of Vinho Verde at the stylish Bar do Parque before heading back to your airport hotel.

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Lisbon · Friday, July 31, 2026

Ericeira coastal charm and airport area leisure

Morning:

Begin the morning with a leisurely stroll along the sun-kissed Praia dos Pescadores, where golden sands meet the Atlantic and the legendary surf spot Ribeira d'Ilhas buzzes with energy. Wander into the charming Ericeira Historic Center, savor a pastel and coffee at Casa das Grelhas, then ascend to the panoramic Miradouro de São Sebastião for sweeping coastal views before heading back toward Lisbon for a relaxed pre-flight pause at the modern Parque das Nações promenade, highlighted by the sleek Torre Vasco da Gama and waterfront cafés.

Afternoon:

After a leisurely lunch, wander down to the secluded Praia da Baleeira, where you can stroll along the golden dunes and dip your feet in the clear Atlantic while spotting local surfers. Continue the coastal vibe with a tasting of regional wines and petiscos at the cozy Adega da Ericeira, perched just a short walk from the beach. In the late afternoon, drive toward Lisbon Airport and explore the fascinating Museu da Aviação before enjoying a final coffee at the modern Café do Terminal, giving you a relaxed finish before your departure.

Evening:

After dusk, head to the historic Ericeira Lighthouse (Farol da Ericeira) for sweeping views of the Atlantic as the lights of the town sparkle below. Dine on fresh seafood at the seaside Bica da Praia, where the open-air terrace lets you hear the waves while enjoying a glass of regional wine. Finish the night with a relaxed cocktail at Bar do Moinho, perched near the old windmill and perfect for soaking up the gentle sea breeze.

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Lisbon · Saturday, August 1, 2026

Explore Lisbon's historic neighborhoods, culinary delights, and sunset viewpoints

Morning:

Start the morning wandering the winding alleys of Alfama, pausing at the historic Sé de Lisboa for a glimpse of its stunning façade before climbing up to Castelo de São Jorge for sweeping city views. Afterwards, descend to the bustling Mercado da Ribeira (Time Out Market) to sample a pastel de nata fresh from the oven and sip a glass of local vinho verde while watching Lisbon come to life.

Afternoon:

After lunch, wander through the elegant streets of Baixa and Chiado, glide up the historic Elevador de Santa Justa for a bird-eye view of the bustling plaza, and indulge in a savory bifana at the classic Casa da Índia. As the golden hour approaches, make your way to the sweeping Miradouro da Senhora do Monte, where a glass of local Ginja and the city's skyline bathed in sunset light create an unforgettable finale.

Evening:

As night falls, wander down to the vibrant Bairro Alto where the streets pulse with live fado at Casa de Linhares and flavorful tapas at Petisqueira da Esquina. Then stroll to the riverside Cais do Sodré to sip a craft gin cocktail at the stylish Ribeira Bar, while the illuminated Ponte 25 de Abril shimmers over the Tagus. Finish the evening with a panoramic view from the Miradouro de Santa Catarina, watching the city lights sparkle below as you enjoy a final glass of Ginjinha.

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Estimated Costs (per person)

Place / ActivityCost
Café Aliança (coffee & pastel de nata)€5
Faro Cathedral tower entry€3
Igreja do Carmo (Chapel of Bones)€4
Museu Municipal de Faro€3
A Venda (seafood dinner)€25
Miradouro da Porta Nova (rooftop lounge drink)€8
Cais da Areia café (breakfast)€6
Guided kayak tour Ria Formosa Natural Park€30
Catamaran to Ilha da Barreta (Ilha Deserta)€20
Restaurante do Barreta (lunch)€15
Bar da Praia (drink)€7
Teatro Lethes (fado performance)€20
O Camponês (dinner)€22
Museu Marítimo Almirante Ramalho Ortigão€4
Museu Arqueológico do Algarve€4
Café Central (meal/drinks)€20
Rooftop Bar of Hotel Eva (drink)€10
Bar da Praia (Albufeira) (drink)€7
Boat to Ponta da Piedade (from Albufeira)€15
Mercado Municipal de Lagos (lunch)€15
Restaurante dos Artistas (dinner)€30
Vila Sol Bar (drink)€8
Museu Municipal Dr. José Formosinho€3
Mercado de Lagos (food tasting)€12
Boat tour Ponta da Piedade (Lagos)€15
Centro Ciência Viva de Lagos€5
Bar do Peixe (drink/food)€12
A Forja (dinner)€25
Bar O Pescador (drink)€8
Café da Praça (drink)€5
Vinho Moscatel (glass)€4
Fortaleza de São Filipe entry€4
Casa da Baía (dinner)€30
Museu do Trabalho Michel Giacometti€4
Café Luso (live jazz cover)€10
Restaurante O Navegante (dinner)€35
Bar do Convento (drink)€8
Sintra Railway ticket (round trip)€5
Palácio Nacional de Sintra entry€10
Quinta da Regaleira entry€8
Castelo dos Mouros entry€8
Palácio da Pena entry€14
Palácio de Monserrate entry€10
Convento dos Capuchos entry€5
Cabo da Roca parking€2
Restaurante Casa da Fonte (dinner)€30
Casa das Grelhas (breakfast)€6
Adega da Ericeira (wine tasting)€15
Museu da Aviação entry€6
Bica da Praia (dinner)€25
Bar do Moinho (drink)€8
Castelo de São Jorge entry€10
Elevador de Santa Justa ticket€5
Casa da Índia (meal)€20
Casa de Linhares (fado show)€25
Petisqueira da Esquina (meal)€22
Ribeira Bar (drink)€8
Estimated Total (per person)€703
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